Originally the bedroom project by Alec Heredia, who moved from Chicago to northern Michigan, newcomers The Hazy Seas have released their debut single as a full band. “Evergreen” is an uplifting, spirited track. It’s the type of song that will remedy the Tuesday blues, providing you with that moment of pleasure and joy to get you over the hump. In many ways, the song is much like Two Door Cinema Club’s work both in sound and effect. Here’s a little band that if given an opportunity at a festival or opening for a mid-level act will gain a rapid following.

One of the great musical “inventions” to come out of the ’90s indie movement is the driving, immersive sound that would result in one getting lost in every note played and lyric spoken. Welsh quartet Kidsmoke have perfected the approach on their brilliant new single, “Heartache”. The crystalline guitars, the warm and stunning harmonies, and the trance-like rhythms merge to create a memorable tune. It’s dramatic, but not overly so; it captivates you for the entire 260 seconds; and the slow build and glorious finish leaves one breathless. If we were to anoint a band that could be this generation’s Gin Blossoms and Toad the Wet Sprocket, Kidsmoke would get heavy consideration. Heck, this band could be the next Oasis.

To say we’re fans of Oh Pep! would be an understatement for a number of reasons, from their terrific debut EP, Living, to their easy-going personalities. The projected headed by former college mates Olivia Hally (guitar/vocals) and Pepita Emmerichs (fiddle/mandolin) has released a brand new single, “Doctor Doctor” sees Oh Pep! move away from the indie-folk leanings of their debut to more of a folk-pop sound. In addition, the sound is probably the most harmony-driven tune the duo have created, echoing the approach of pop darlings Lucius. While the sound has changed, the splendid songwriting remains, as the duo have a knack for telling vivid stories within a few short minutes. On this tune, it’s more than just about a relationship, but the many questions a young woman faces, including what to do with her unexpected pregnancy.

“Doctor Doctor” is the first single from Oh Pep!’s forthcoming, debut album Stadium Cake, which drops June 24th via Dualtone Music Group, which is home to Langhorne Slim, The Lumineers, and Brandi Carlile.

Now this is one heck of a single to be introduced to a new band that not even my friends in Paris have heard about. Originally formed in London before relocating to Paris, ØLLEBIRDE are an indietronica trio who design music that is dark, emotive, and hypnotic. Their latest single, “Trouble”, is breathless and gorgeous. The dual harmonies used give the song an added urgency and beauty not heard on similar-sounding tracks. In addition, the approach allows the band to share both sides of a troubled relationship. Think Daughter meets The xx, and that’s what you have with an ØLLEBIRDE, a trio to watch in 2016.

We don’t share too many songs by electronic artists. However, when it is able to mesmerize us and take us away emotionally and psychologically like Sykoya is able to do, we don’t have much choice but to succumb to the allure of the music and the artist. We were actually captivated early one when the London-based artist shared her debut single “Closer”. Her latest single, “Strange Night”, retains the same ethereal grace and soul-crushing sound of her first single. This latest song, though, is even more haunting and even a little bit unnerving, especially during the moments Sykoya utters the words, “closer to you”. It’s quite the feat to be able to lull one into a state of serenity while simultaneous putting one on edge.

“Strange Night” is the title track from Sykoya’s forthcoming, debut EP. It will be released on May 21st.

English quintet Tourists have been around for a couple of years, quietly releasing singles and an EP (hear some of their songs on SoundCloud), but they remain a relatively unknown band. With the release of their latest single, “Cut and Run”, however, they just might be recognized beyond the city limits of Torquay. On this single, arguably the best song they’ve released to date, the five-piece channel The Cure while adding a heavy dose of The Smiths to create one awesome tune. The song is highlighted by the slow build established from the driving, reverb-filled guitars and the quiet but immersive harmonies. As a result, it’s a little rocker that is surprising dreamy.

One of the nicest and coolest rock musicians you’ll encounter is Adrienne VanDeRocker who goes simply by the name Vanderocker. Beyond the personality is an extremely gifted artist who creates music across the rock spectrum. Her latest single, “You’d Better Walk”, is another groovy, toe-tapping track, whose Spaghetti Western vibe would make it perfect for the sequel to Pulp Fiction. If Quentin Tarantino is reading this, hopefully he’ll connect with Vanderocker and have her score his next movie.

“You’d Better Walk” is from Vanderocker’s debut album, Jupiter’s Kiss, which is available now. Get it on iTunes.